PLEASANTON, Calif. — Safeway has joined forces with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion on an initiative to develop and promote dietary guidance that links scientific research to the nutrition needs of consumers.

"Empowering our shoppers and employees to make the right nutritional choices for themselves and their families is paramount in the way we do business," Safeway chairman, president and CEO Steve Burd said. "We are very excited about the USDA partnership as it underscores our commitment to health and wellness and provides a natural extension to the work we're already doing to help Americans make informed, healthier choices when shopping in our stores and in their daily lives."

As one of the largest national grocery chains to become a national strategic partner in the CNPP's Nutrition Communicators Network, Safeway will help drive the group's food retail-based effort. "Retailers are critical to helping our vision become a reality because they have the opportunity to impact and educate consumers at the store and on the shelf," noted Robert Post, deputy director of USDA's CNPP. "We look forward to partnering with Safeway and embrace the expertise they bring to our efforts in encouraging Americans to adopt a healthier lifestyle."

Safeway already has implemented programs designed to educate consumers on healthy living. For example, its proprietary SimpleNutrition shelf tag system helps shoppers quickly make food and beverage choices that meet the nutritional needs of their families. Safeway is also developing a fun and educational in-store tour program for kids spotlighting the major food groups and further establishing USDA MyPlate messages.

In addition, Safeway has been making its pharmacists available to offer education and consultation for a broad range of needs such as proper utilization of over-the-counter and prescription products, preventive care (including immunization services) and management of such chronic diseases as diabetes, the grocer said.

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